Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude to Indonesia for its efforts in preserving the rich heritage of the Prambanan Temple complex during a visit to Yogyakarta. This occasion highlighted the cultural connections that transcend geographical boundaries. Modi, alongside Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, participated in the launch of a joint project dedicated to the conservation of the temple complex.

The event occurred a day after India and Indonesia formalised a Letter of Intent to commence restoration activities with assistance from India. During a press conference in Jakarta, Modi conveyed his enthusiasm about collaborating with President Prabowo, calling the over-1,000-year-old temple a significant symbol of the intertwined cultural heritage shared by both nations.

Modi addressed Prabowo with warmth, labelling him a “friend” and reiterating how special the visit was for him. Their camaraderie was evident through their interactions, characterised by friendly gestures and a concluding embrace that underlined the bilateral relationship.

Significance of the Prambanan Temple

Located approximately 17 kilometres northeast of Yogyakarta, the Prambanan Temple Compound is recognised as Indonesia’s largest Hindu temple. Constructed in the 10th century, it is primarily dedicated to the deity Shiva. In front of the temple’s spires, new commemorative plaque was unveiled, reading “Indonesia-India Collaborative Cultural Heritage Conservation for Prambanan Temple.”

During his address, Modi remarked on the pervasive scent of culture that evokes a deep connection to India. He thanked the people of Indonesia for their dedicated preservation efforts and acknowledged their faith in maintaining the grandeur of the site over the centuries. The Prime Minister described the entire experience as profoundly moving, recounting the chants he heard during his visit.

Modi highlighted the temple’s statues of revered figures such as Lord Shiva, Goddess Durga, and Lord Ganesha, noting that worship has been offered at the site for generations. He expressed his privilege in visiting the temple, where he also took part in a prayer ritual. He remarked on the cultural links between India and Southeast Asia, underscoring the significance of the temple within this shared heritage.

Future Prospects and Cooperation

The conservation initiative will be spearheaded by the Archaeological Survey of India. Modi expressed his confidence in President Prabowo’s meticulous planning abilities, stating his expectation that the project will be completed ahead of schedule, specifically before 2029. He communicated his intent to revisit and celebrate the achievement with the Indonesian people.

Modi’s arrival in Jakarta marked the onset of a broader trip encompassing Australia and New Zealand, focusing on cooperation across trade, security, and rare-earth minerals under the India-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established in 2018. As the visit concluded, he extended thanks for the hospitality received from the Indonesian people, reinforcing the importance of cultural ties.

The mutual respect and shared focus on preserving cultural heritage signify a strengthening of relations between India and Indonesia. As both nations engage in collaborative efforts, the future appears promising for furthering diplomatic and cultural exchanges.

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